The top 10 tips for a successful continuous improvement

2. Continuous Improvement is the ongoing effort of engaged
employees and improvement teams to improve information,
materials, products, services or processes.
The first step in establishing a continuous improvement mind
set is to recognize the problem. That is, recognize the fact that
your organization does not have or could do quite better
exhibiting a continuous improvement mind set.

3. Adaptability and an action oriented leadership team are inherent
components of a continuous improvement culture. Resistance to change
exists in all organizations to a degree and it must be recognized for what it
is, an impediment to improvement.

4. Many people advocate Kaizen oriented thinking and behavior where
continual small, incremental improvements provide tremendous benefits in
performance and end results achieved over time. Others advocate a
Crossing the Chasm mind set where drastic change is introduced completely
replacing inefficient execution rather than slightly improving upon it. In a
continuous improvement culture, there is room for both approaches.

5. Process-centric thinking does not have to be overly complex. Sometimes, all
it takes is a thoughtful examination to uncover significant areas for
improvement. Rather than tolerating mistakes and repeat errors, facilitate
process-centric thinking to continually improve, correct, and overcome
execution difficulties.

6. Expect and overcome resistance to change with ongoing training, reinforcement
of expected behaviors, and recognition of those who are learning and doing.

7. Ensuring a penalty-free exchange of ideas is beneficial to both the giver and
the receiver of new ideas and approaches and will ensure a safe two way
exchange of thoughts and ideas.

8. A consistent and structured approach for project identification and execution
will provide the organization with the ability to identify, select, and manage
continuous improvement projects. It should also provide post-closing process
steps to continually refine the improvement project methodology and to act
upon the lessons learn from the project effort.

9. It is not possible to improve what is not measured. Determine in advance
the approach and techniques to be used in measurements. Scorecards can
be useful to monitor the key performance indicators of processes that
support capability and performance.

10. Ensure regular communications to foster collaborative interactions among
leaders, stakeholders, and practitioners at all levels. Where
needed, schedule face to face meetings and where not needed, use the
communication and collaboration tools and capabilities of the enterprise to
keep all members updated and involved.

11. Establish the core values that comprise the continuous improvement
culture such as a focus on supporting the customer, teamwork throughout
the extended enterprise, receptivity to evolving continuous improvement
concepts and tools. These core values will create a sense of belonging and a
common vision for all involved.